Cleveland Browns Sign Free Agent Wide Receiver

The Cleveland Browns recently signed wide receiver Austin Watkins Jr., a 6-foot-3, 210-pound player from the University of Alabama-Birmingham.

His path to the NFL was challenging, starting as an undrafted free agent with the San Francisco 49ers in 2021, where he spent time on the practice squad due to a foot injury.

The #Browns have signed WR Austin Watkins Jr.

— Camryn Justice (@camijustice) July 22, 2023

Watkins later had a brief stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2022, facing hamstring issues.

However, Watkins found his breakthrough during the recent USFL season with the Birmingham Stallions, showcasing his potential with 16 receptions for 197 yards and a touchdown.

We have signed WR Austin Watkins Jr.

📰 » https://t.co/Svv2CFMhW0 pic.twitter.com/yyzP2himjk

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) July 22, 2023

Now, with injuries affecting the Browns' receiving corps, they brought him in to compete for a spot on the active roster alongside offseason additions Elijah Moore and rookie Cedric Tillman from the NFL Draft.

To secure his place, Watkins will have to deliver an outstanding performance during the preseason, aiming to make his mark in the NFL after overcoming obstacles in his journey. Photo Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports